&HPS1
Thursday, 11 October - Saturday, 13 October 2007
Center for Philosophy of Science
University of Pittsburgh

Thematic Session

Historical and Philosophical Considerations of Newton’s Mechanics
Moderator: Alan Shapiro

Newton 's science, or rather natural philosophy, has been an active
research area for both historians and philosophers of science. One
approach alone is frequently adequate to address the issue at hand,
but it also turns out that an integrated historical and philosophical
approach is required to reach a satisfactory resolution of the
issues.  Some historical questions may not be adequately answered
unless Newton's philosophical concerns are taken into account,  for
example,  methodological or metaphysical issues, such as hypothetical
science,  God, and space. A philosophical question may have to be
historicized, that is, considered in Newton's own terms rather than
contemporary ones for a proper resolution. Moreover, a historical
investigation may be greatly enriched by recognizing its
philosophical implications, just as a philosophical one can lead to a
deeper historical understanding. In this session we intend to
illustrate some of the ways in which an integrated historical and
philosophical approach to Newton's science can lead to a deeper
understanding of Newton's work.